Magic of Christmas

Visit the Florence Griswold Museum (in Old Lyme, CT) for a unique holiday experience.  In the historic rooms of the House, you will see how families celebrated Christmas in 1910.  historically accurate decorations reveal the homespun creativity and the use of surprising materials. The 1910 time period was an important era for the Griswold House, as that was the heyday of its use.  Also, admire the painted palettes on Miss Florence’s Artist Tree. Nearly 200 noted artists from across the country have donated works to this one-of-a-kind holiday icon. The idea of contemporary artists painting palettes is a nod to the museum’s history as the center for the Lyme Art Colony, and alludes to the door and wall panels the artists painted throughout Miss Florence’s boardinghouse over a century ago. The palette artists’ styles and subject matter are as varied as the individuals. Oils, acrylics, watercolors, ceramics, glass, and collage are used to transform the palettes into traditional holiday scenes, delightful landscapes, and more. A docent will lead you on a guided tour of the house.

Enjoy a late lunch at the Griswold Inn in Essex. Your entrée choices: Baked Cod with Baby Spinach, Artichoke Hearts, and Roasted Garlic or Herb Roasted Pork Loin with a Cider Reduction. All entrees are served with Salad, Hot Rolls, Chef’s Choice of Starch and Vegetable, Dessert, Coffee or Tea.

Spend some time in Ivoryton to view the holiday lights in which over 350,000 lights are used to decorate this village. If you have a radio near you, you’ll notice that the lights dance to the music. Not only will you be able to enjoy the lights, there are also local shops that you can explore.